The GOAT’s Greatest Lesson
Annika Sorenstam’s Humility and Heart Reveal the Power of Giving Back
Golf has a way of teaching you lessons that stretch far beyond the course. Some of the most valuable lessons don’t come from winning trophies or hitting perfect shots—they come from watching people who embody something deeper.
Recently, I was reminded of this while spending time with Annika Sorenstam and Rob Ohno. Two people who, in different ways, live out the idea that service is greater than self.
Annika doesn’t need an introduction. She’s the GOAT of women’s golf, with a career that speaks for itself. Yet what struck me wasn’t her resume—it was her demeanor. Her presence doesn’t shout. It doesn’t demand attention. Instead, it radiates humility. She has taken everything the game has given her and poured it back into the next generation through her foundation.
The Annika Foundation has become a global platform for junior golfers to not only compete, but also grow as people. And when you see Annika interact with young players, it’s clear what drives her. It’s not about being remembered as the greatest. It’s about being useful—paving a path for those who come after her.
That’s service. That’s giving.
Then there’s Rob Ohno. Rob could have stayed in the comfort of a senior executive role on the PGA Tour, a career of prestige and influence. But he chose a different route. He joined Annika’s mission-based foundation because he believed in the power of its purpose. That decision wasn’t about building his name. It was about building a legacy of impact.
Watching Annika and Rob reminded me of a mantra that has shaped my own perspective:
“When you focus on wanting to bless, rather than impress, you have nothing to stress.”
It’s simple, but it changes everything.
Think about golf. You’re standing on the first tee, nerves running through your body. If your goal is to impress—show perfect form, stripe the ball, prove something—you pile stress on your shoulders. But if your goal is to bless—enjoy the game, encourage your playing partners, give your best effort—you free yourself to play.
The same is true off the course. Public speaking, for example. The fear of “How will they see me?” can be paralyzing. But when you shift the question to “How can I serve them?” the fear fades. You speak with clarity because your focus isn’t on performance—it’s on contribution.
And in life’s pressure moments—whether it’s a job interview, a big presentation, or even a personal challenge—the stress multiplies when you make it about impressing. But it dissolves when you anchor yourself in giving.
Annika and Rob embody this in real time. Their lives show that fulfillment comes not from the applause, but from the impact. They remind me that true confidence isn’t about proving worth—it’s about adding value.
That’s the real takeaway. Greatness isn’t defined by how much you achieve. It’s defined by how much you give and the ability to be a multiplier.
So the next time you face pressure—whether on the first tee, behind a podium, or in any high-stakes moment—remember this:
When you focus on wanting to bless, rather than impress… you have nothing to stress.
Your Mental Coach,
Dr. Mat
P.S. If you want to join MPGA’s FREE Big Event this Friday, September 5th at 8:30pm (ET), reserve your seat here. See you soon!
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